Q. Hi, I have just retired under FERS after 34.5 years at the U.S. Postal Service. I understand that Social Security will penalize me if I earn more than $17,640 per year. I know they take $1 for every $3 that I earn over that amount. Do I just lose that money?
Author Reg Jones
Reg Jones
Reg Jones was head of retirement and insurance policy at the Office of Personnel Management. Email your retirement-related questions to fedexperts@federaltimes.com.
Q. If I’m approved for FERS disability retirement and I’m also accepted for Social Security Disability Insurance, would I be able to work part-time in the civilian work force, or is there no working allowed at all?
Q. Can I take a postponed retirement with 30 years in if I haven’t reached my minimum retirement age?
Q. How does it work if you are approved for FERS disability retirement but not approved for Social Security Disability Insurance?
Q. I am looking to accept a position in the GS system. I was retired as a direct result of armed conflict with 21 years active duty. Will all of those years count toward my FERS retirement? Do I have to buy any back? I just want to know how long I would have to work before I could retire again and receive the FERS retirement. I am 46 now.
Q. I am a FERS employee with 18 years of service. I am retired military with 20 years of service that I bought back soon after I became a FERS employee. I turn 56 this year. Am I entitled to the special retirement supplement and, if so, how would I calculate the amount? My question is based on guidance I was provided that stated the requirement for the SRS is “Retirement at MRA with 30 years” or “Retirement at age 60 with 20 years” … but only true FERS time counts, not military time.
Q. I’m a FERS employee, Title 5. After meeting 30 years service and meeting MRA, how will my top three years be determined? Is it base pay or gross pay for that year?
Q. Can you receive your early retirement annuity and still work for the federal government?
Q. As a federal employee, how will my insurances and leave accrual be impacted if I go part-time? If I stay employed in a part-time status, will my service years accrue year-for-year or will it be prorated based on hours worked?
Q. My wife is receiving a state pension plus Social Security. I have a CSRS pension. If I were to die, will she be able to collect the 55 percent survivor benefits with no penalty along with her Social Security and state pension?